Johnson stressed that he was not at all involved in Brown's firing, saying that he had not talked with Lakers owner Jerry Buss or general manager Mitch Kupchak ahead of the move. He said if he were involved, he would "own it."

I'd like to address some rumors related to my role in the firing of Mike Brown.I had NO conversations w/ Dr. Buss, Jim Buss or Mitch.

"Have I been telling him from Day One that this guy wasn't the right guy? Yes, I've said that," Johnson said. "I said that on the air last year. I've always backed up what I say. But have I went to Dr. Buss ever and said 'fire this guy'? Never. Have I talked to Dr. Buss about Mike Brown ever? No. So, that's been a lie that they put out. But that's OK. I'm a big boy. I can handle it. Dr. Buss makes his own decisions. You're underestimating Dr. Buss. When you say that, it's a slap in the face of Dr. Buss."